From the ice and deep freeze of winter to the wild winds that end a summer heat wave abruptly, we all know Michigan can deliver extreme, sudden and surprising weather. That's not just an inconvenience for those of us who prefer nature to treat us kindly. It can be a major challenge to keep electricity flowing through miles and miles of this state's power lines.

If Michigan weather threatens to knock down power lines, the work that we at Consumers Energy do in trimming trees helps to keep them up. Any day of the year, you can find workers – as many as 700 today throughout our service area – out in all conditions to keep trees and limbs away from electric lines that connect and help power our state.

Forestry is vital work for Consumers Energy, and Michigan residents should know we're committed to it more than ever.

This is an investment in reliable electricity. Each year, we look at which circuits -- which communities, really -- suffer the most power outages due to trees. Each year, we develop a plan to do forestry work that does the most good to keep the lights on for the most people.

In that way, think of tree trimming as no different from replacing natural gas pipes, or our work to keep animals away from sensitive equipment inside electric substations. The more we can make such investments, the less often people will lose power when the winds kick up. And we know this because we hear it every day: Residents and businesses need dependable electricity to keep their lives on track and the economy humming.

The biggest complaint I hear about our forestry work is its impact on the appearance of neighborhoods where people live. I appreciate that. I enjoy the beauty and the shade from trees near my home.

So, you need to know what you can do to help us. We knock on doors and send letters to residents before we start forestry projects, and we want you to tell us your thoughts on what we plan to do. Call us at 800-477-5050 at any time if you have questions.

Know, too, that your decisions in terms of planting trees have an impact on your property, for you and for future generations. We support the Arbor Day Foundation's "The Right Tree in the Right Place" campaign, which builds awareness for the idea that only certain trees should be planted under power lines. Some should not be planted near lines at all.

This summer, expect to see more crews clearing trees away from electric lines. And know that this work is being done for an important reason, to keep power flowing to your home or business.

Trees have their place, of course, but not near a power line!

Mary Palkovich is vice president of energy delivery for Consumers Energy.